The 49ers' WRs are holding back the offense

It’s easy to make the argument 49ers’ QB Colin Kaepernick is struggling. In fact, we made that very argument two weeks ago.

Kaepernick hasn’t helped his cause. He’s thrown for more than 200 yards only twice this season. During his last two games, Kaepernick is 28-of-53 passing for 218 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. The 49ers also lost both of those games.

But the problems in San Francisco’s passing game extend beyond Kaepernick.

In “22” personnel there is only one wide receiver on the field. The 49ers are simply more talented at tight end than wide receiver at the moment. The team’s offensive alignments are a reflection of the situation.

The most explosive player in the offense is Vernon Davis. The offense looks different when he’s healthy — which he hasn’t been during stretches of the season.

After Boldin and Davis, the team’s next leading receivers are its fullback and running back.

The 49ers’ WRs are simply struggling to get open.

Help is on the way.

Michael Crabtree, the team’s leading receiver a year ago, could play his first game Monday against the Redskins after suffering a torn Achilles in May. 49ers head coach John Harbaugh stated after Monday’s practice that Crabtree may be ready to play.

“We’ll see. I think so. I think he’s close.”

Crabtree will likely be eased into the lineup, but his presence could provide a dramatic improvement within the offense.

When WR Michael Crabtree returns, will help some because SF may be more willing to play 11 people (1RB/1TE) and utilize Zone-Read with Kap.